Youth Participate In Sunnah Sports

During the Spring break, the At-Taqwa Children and Youth launched Sunnah Sports – a range of sports taster sessions for archery, horse riding and wrestling.

Narrated Uqbah ibn Amir:

“I heard the Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) say: Allah, Most High, will cause three persons to enter Paradise for one arrow: the maker when he has a good motive in making it, the one who shoots it, and the one who hands it; so shoot and ride, but your shooting is dearer to me than your riding…”

Sahih Muslim Book 14, Number 2507

The youth of the masjid were introduced to some of the social sports that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions used to actively participate and enjoy in those days (hence the coined phrase ‘Sunnah Sports’). A lot of the sport activities that they participated in are still widely practiced today and was an opportunity for the youth to experience a different set of sporting activities practiced centuries ago, away from today’s popular equivalent.

Archery

Starting with a motivational introduction into the Sunnah aspects of archery, Brother Muhammad Patel from the Leicester Archery Academy emphasised the importance of health and safety before moving onto the technique of how to hold the bow, place the arrow on the string and the mechanics of shooting.

After several practice shots we moved onto some archery games and a competition between two teams as accuracy improved. MashaAllah students were motivated and enthusiastic throughout the session.

Students said they were extremely excited, they had fun and learnt some new skills. They are eagerly waiting the next session.

Due to the success of the event, At-Taqwa Children and Youth are hoping to offer archery as an enrichment activity on a more regular basis inshaAllah.

Horseriding

The session started with a horse grooming (to help the horses familiarise themselves with their riders). For many of our students this is the closest they have ever been to a horse.

Under the guidance of Sofie, the lead instructor for the day, students were helped up onto their horse, buckled up and led out for a short walk on the grounds around the stables.

Students were taught how to sit in the saddle and hold the reigns as well as how get their horse to walk, trot and stop.

It was a fabulous experience for students and teachers alike.

We are hoping to visit the stables again soon inshaAllah.

Wrestling

Under the coaching of Brother Nasir from S&S extreme, the young boys picked up some basic wrestling and grappling techniques. The purpose of the activity was to help the youth in gaining self confidence, learn some basic self defence and the importance of gamesmanship.

Again, the young boys really enjoyed the day and despite a few bumps, they would love the opportunity to be back for Round 2 inshaAllah.